"I think this about McClain, he deserves a second chance," DeCosta told The Baltimore Sun on Monday night. "If you asked him, he would probably admit to making some mistakes. We think he warrants a second chance."

The former Oakland Raiders linebacker remains a frequent presence in the court system. Along with his April indiscretion, the 23-year-old on Monday pleaded guilty to a window tint violation and had a false information charge dismissed. McClain also faces two pending cases involving driving charges.

After signing a one-year, $700,000 contract with up to $400,000 in incentives, McClain's already been given a second -- if not a third or fourth -- opportunity for redemption.

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The timing is interesting. The Ravens obviously want to see what McClain can offer on the field after the draft haul came and went without providing his clear replacement. As it stands, McClain is penciled in behind Jameel McClain at inside backer.

DeCosta also went out of his way to praise the Ravens' in-place mentoring program for troubled players and cited the team's strong locker room. Unlike the Raiders, the Ravens believe they have what it takes to help McClain finally turn it around. They also have a need.